Aerobics videos are a good resource for beginning or restarting your fitness journey. You can exercise in the comfort of your own home without the intimidation of other fit individuals or the embarrassment of not knowing quite what to do. There is also a large variety of aerobic workouts on DVD, and something for everyone--from kickboxing to belly dancing. Perhaps the best part is that you are free to work out on your own schedule.
History
Dr. Kenneth Cooper, of the Cooper Institute, coined the term "aerobics" in his book, "Aerobics," in 1968, according to TampaBay.com. Aerobics videos were created shortly afterward, in the late 1970s, with Jane Fonda being perhaps the most popular and recognizable video instructor. The nature and techniques of aerobics have changed since then, but the principles are the same: increase heart rate to improve cardiovascular health.
Function
Aerobics classes traditionally take place in gyms, fitness centers or at local wellness centers. However, it can be an inconvenience to drive to a gym after or before work, change clothes, sweat for an hour and take a communal shower. The aerobics video's function is to be an alternative. You don't have to adhere to a fitness center's schedule; you can exercise at the time most convenient for you, whether 5:00 a.m. or 11:00 p.m. Since you also don't have to worry about your appearance or who may be watching you, aerobic videos are less intimidating for the beginner.
Considerations
Be aware that some aerobics videos may require additional equipment that otherwise would be by a fitness center. You may need a step, resistance bands, dumb bells, a jump rope or a pull-up bar. These items are relatively inexpensive, however, and you can find them at a discount store. Another consideration is that working out at home may involve some distractions absent at a gym. You may have children, a spouse or a pet that needs attention, and could get interrupted during your workout. Try to remove these distractions before beginning your aerobics video.
Types
There are various types of aerobics videos and DVDs. Perhaps the most prolific for beginners are step aerobics videos. This type of aerobics involves high and low impact exercises using a 4-to-8 inch step. Other popular types of videos are Pilates, yoga, kickboxing, toning/weight training and boot camp workouts.
Absolute Beginners Fitness Video
Taught by Nekea Brown, this program combines step and dance to create a fun, yet basic workout just right for the aerobics novice. There is a detailed tutorial segment that teaches all the fundamental step and dance terms as well as proper form for the basic moves, according to ieFit.com. This program offers two 30-minute workouts that are fun, yet challenging for the beginner.
Billy Blanks' Tae Bo Instructional and Basic Workout
Billy Blanks is a martial arts and fitness expert. He combines boxing punches and martial arts kicks for a fun, effective workout. This video begins by teaching the movements you need to successfully complete the workout. Once you've mastered the movements, the workout is easy and fun, nothing too complicated to trip you up, according to the product description on Amazon.com.
Christy Taylor: Humble Beginnings Step and Hi/Lo Aerobics
This two DVD set has three workouts, each a little more advanced than the previous. Workout one combines beginner and intermediate step and hi/lo (impact) aerobics and dances to get your heart rate up. Workout two is a little more challenging and consists of intermediate step aerobics and hi/lo exercises that make you feel like a professional dancer, according to Central Home.com. Workout three is advanced, with more complex choreography and higher intensity aerobics. This set allows you to challenge yourself as you move from beginner to advanced exercises.
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